Ways to Celebrate Halloween this Year in DC

Washington, D.C. is gearing up for a spooktacular Halloween, and if you’re in the city this October, you’re in for a treat! With a cornucopia of Halloween-themed events the amount of options can be frightening, but fear not! This blog post will help you navigate the bewitching choices and ensure you have an unforgettable Halloween experience in the heart of the nation’s capital.

Halloween "BOO"cycle Ride

Introducing the 12th Annual CBG’s Halloween “BOO”cycle Ride, a delightful event presented by NoVA CBG for all the cycling enthusiasts out there. This ride is a heartwarming experience that has become a beloved tradition in NoVA CBG. Parents and children eagerly anticipate the return of the Annual BOOcycle Ride, and if you’ve had the pleasure of participating in the past, you know exactly why. For those who haven’t joined the fun yet, it’s time to experience the excitement firsthand. The ride covers a route of approximately 15 miles at a festive Halloween pace. Lights are required on your bicycle and costumes are encouraged! Read more about the details and rules for the bike ride here.

2023 Literary Pumpkin Walk

For a unique Halloween experience this year, consider strolling through Capitol Hill’s Literary Pumpkin Walk. Local residents deck out their homes with decorations inspired by books and literary characters. It’s a creative and engaging way to celebrate the season. You can wander through the neighborhood, checking out various themed displays, and even vote for your favorite. Plus, it’s a chance to appreciate the sense of community and support local schools. Read more about the event and vote here.

Halloween Bar Crawls

If you’re looking for a lively and festive way to celebrate Halloween in the city, joining a Halloween bar crawl is an excellent option. Washington, D.C. comes alive with a bunch of Halloween-themed bar crawls that offer a spirited and enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether you’re wearing an intricate costume or just out to enjoy the atmosphere, these bar crawls provide a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Halloween in the city. You can explore various bars, sample special drinks, and meet others. It’s a fun and social way to celebrate Halloween in the nation’s capital while also experiencing some of the city’s best nightlife.

Six Flags Fright Fest

Looking for an event sure to make you scream? Head over to Six Flags America in Bowie, MD, where they’re hosting their annual Fright Fest event until October 31st. This amusement park transforms into a truly spooky spot, adorned with Halloween decorations and swarming with eerie characters. One of the highlights is enjoying the park’s attractions in the dark, a cherished tradition of Six Flags’ Fright Fest. Beyond the thrill of nighttime rides, you can explore haunted attractions, wander through the Scare Zones, and prepare to be startled. For more details about this hair-raising experience and to familiarize yourself with Six Flags’ Fright Fest Ghoul Rules, read more here.

Mansion on O for a Halloween Treasure Hunt

Looking for a unique Halloween activity this year? Consider checking out the Mansion on O’s Halloween Treasure Hunt. The mansion is all decked out with Halloween decorations just for this event, making it a fun way to embrace the Halloween spirit. You can enjoy searching for Autumn and Halloween-themed items hidden throughout the mansion, with the chance to win additional prizes. With a large number of rooms and secret doors to explore, it’s an engaging option for those seeking a different kind of Halloween adventure. Plus, there’s a self-guided tour available to explore the themed rooms and secret doors. Learn more and reserve a spot here.

Trick-or-Treat at the Library

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly and literary twist on Halloween fun, be sure to check out the trick-or-treating events happening at two libraries in D.C. First up, the Cleveland Park Neighborhood Library invites young readers to explore the library and take on a special trick-or-treat challenge where they can win some cool prizes. Meanwhile, over at the Shaw (Watha T. Daniel) Neighborhood Library, they’re hosting a trick-or-treating day where costumes are a must! Kids can head to the circulation desk in their favorite costumes to receive some candy. These library events offer a safe and fun way for children to enjoy Halloween, and they encourage the love of books and reading along the way. It’s a win-win for families looking to celebrate in the neighborhood! Read more and check out the library events here.

Take a Night Tour of DC's Monuments and Memorials

While there are numerous ghost tours on foot throughout the city, if you’re in the mood for a change from walking but still want to immerse yourself in the essence of DC, consider opting for one of our narrated golf cart tours. These tours are available at various times during the day, with the evening tour being particularly appealing during this spooky season. The night tour grants you the opportunity to witness the city’s landmarks illuminated under the night sky, and it’s open for booking every evening at 7:30 PM throughout the fall. This two-hour Twilight Tour encompasses the transition from sundown to a mesmerizing display of lights and colors, offering a unique perspective on Washington, DC’s historical monuments. With the Capitol building beautifully lit at night and the grand architecture of the monuments contrasting against the evening sky, it’s a sight you don’t want to miss. There are ample opportunities to take photos as you journey from one stop to the next. This tour promises to be a truly unforgettable experience during your visit to the nation’s capital. Don’t miss out on this opportunity and book your narrated golf cart tour today!